The Generalist Dilemma in Consulting
Many consultants describe their generalist skillset as a limitation when considering careers after consulting. But the real challenge isn’t the skillset itself—it’s the subconscious relationship to worth, identity, and safety that consulting reinforces.
For many, consulting provides more than a job. It offers a structured path, external validation, and a built-in support system. Leaving can feel like stepping into the unknown without a clear roadmap.
Many consultants today are questioning whether the traditional career path—climbing the ranks to partner—is truly worth it. The consulting industry is facing a major shift, with more high performers opting out of the grind in search of more fulfilling work. This trend is explored by the Business Insider articl: “How consulting lost its cool”.
If you’re a generalist consultant struggling with what comes next, you’re not alone. I see this challenge regularly in my work with ex-consultants, and I recently shared my thoughts on this exact issue in a Reddit discussion on r/consulting. In it, I break down the core reasons why so many generalists feel stuck—and how they can start moving forward.
Why High Performers Struggle to Move On
Despite being highly capable, generalists often feel stuck in their consulting roles. Here’s why:
✅ Over-reliance on external validation – Consulting rewards performance with ratings, promotions, and prestige. Many overachievers equate their worth with these markers of success.
✅ Lack of exposure to alternative paths – The standard exits (PE, corporate strategy, startups) feel like the only viable options. Those who don’t fit these paths often feel lost.
✅ Fear of losing identity and community – The fast-paced, high-achieving environment of consulting becomes an integral part of self-worth. Walking away can feel like losing a part of yourself.
✅ Subconscious attachment patterns – Many insecure overachievers entered consulting because they felt a need to prove themselves. Leaving requires breaking free from this deeply ingrained pattern.
✅ Financial and productivity fears – Consulting offers structured progression, high pay, and clear expectations. Without these, self-doubt creeps in: Will I still be productive? Can I manage my finances?
Breaking Free: How to Overcome These Barriers
If you’re struggling with your next step, the good news is that your generalist background is an advantage—once you shift your mindset. Here’s how:
💡 Recognize your real value – Consulting trained you in problem-solving, adaptability, and high-pressure execution. These skills are in demand far beyond the traditional exit paths.
💡 Redefine success on your own terms – Moving forward means shifting from external validation to internal fulfillment. What do you actually want, beyond what looks good on a résumé?
💡 Create your own safety net – Instead of relying on a firm’s structure, build systems that support your well-being. This includes financial planning, productivity habits, and a strong personal network.
💡 Work through attachment patterns – Much of the fear around leaving stems from subconscious beliefs. Addressing these through coaching, IFS, or other modalities can accelerate the transition.
A Future Beyond Consulting
Most people who feel stuck in consulting don’t have a skillset problem—they have an identity problem. Breaking free requires shifting from who you’ve been trained to be to who you actually are.
Some will start businesses. Others will take sabbaticals to explore. Some will find purpose in impact-driven work, boutique firms, or coaching. The key is realizing that fulfillment rarely comes from following a predefined path—it comes from defining your own.
If this resonates, I work with people who are navigating this exact transition. Click here to book a free 30-minute consultation.
